Superficial (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Of little substance or significance; "a few superficial editorial changes"; "only trivial objections".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The politician's speech contained many superficial promises that lacked concrete plans for implementation.
- Her criticisms of the movie were superficial, focusing on minor flaws rather than the overall impact.
- He made some superficial changes to the document, but the core message remained the same.
- Despite her superficial understanding of the topic, she was able to convincingly argue her point.
- The company's superficial commitment to environmental sustainability was exposed when the scandal broke.
Synonyms
Meaning 2
Of, affecting, or being on or near the surface; "superficial measurements"; "the superficial area of the wall"; "a superficial wound".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- The doctor examined the patient's superficial wound and determined it wouldn't require stitches.
- A superficial layer of ice covered the frozen lake, but it wasn't strong enough to support any weight.
- The superficial area of the wall was cracked, but the underlying structure appeared intact.
- The scientists took superficial measurements of the ocean's surface to monitor the water temperature.
- Despite initial concerns, the athlete's injury turned out to be a superficial bruise rather than a serious muscle strain.
Related Words
Meaning 3
Occurring on or near the surface of the skin; "superficial burns"; "superficial facial injuries".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The doctor examined the patient's wounds and determined that most of the injuries were superficial and would heal quickly.
- After the accident, she had superficial bruises on her arms and legs, but fortunately, no broken bones.
- The athlete received superficial cuts on her knee that required a few stitches, but she was able to return to the game.
- A superficial burn on his hand made it painful for him to grip anything tightly.
- The doctor treated the patient's superficial lacerations with antibiotic ointment and bandages to promote healing and prevent infection.
Meaning 4
Hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough; "a casual (or cursory) inspection failed to reveal the house's structural flaws"; "a passing glance"; "perfunctory courtesy"; "In his paper, he showed a very superficial understanding of psychoanalytic theory".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The company's superficial analysis of the market trends led to a series of poor business decisions.
- A superficial inspection of the device didn't reveal the underlying issues that caused it to malfunction.
- The tour guide provided a superficial explanation of the historical site, barely scratching the surface of its significance.
- Her superficial knowledge of the language made it difficult for her to express her thoughts and feelings effectively.
- The professor was disappointed by the student's superficial essay, which lacked depth and critical analysis.
Synonyms
Meaning 5
Concerned with or comprehending only what is apparent or obvious; not deep or penetrating emotionally or intellectually; "superficial similarities"; "a superficial mind"; "his thinking was superficial and fuzzy"; "superficial knowledge"; "the superficial report didn't give the true picture"; "only superficial differences".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- Her analysis of the novel was superficial and failed to capture its underlying themes and symbolism.
- His concern for the environment was superficial, only extending to recycling and using reusable bags.
- The movie's portrayal of the historical event was criticized for its superficial depiction of the main characters.
- After scratching the surface of their superficial conversation, it became clear that they had no real connection.
- Despite their superficial similarities, the two musicians had distinct styles and approaches to their craft.